So In the World

[Gavin Etheridge]

Tense was not the correct word for the current state of affairs in the world, but honestly Gavin wasn't sure what would be. Strained? Frustrated? The most recent war between Amestris and Drachma had been harrowing, and their war-mongering and malcontent had left many of the countries that weren't involved directly or at all more than a little uneasy and apprehensive toward them. A little over a month ago Amestris had been attacked from within and hit hard, costing the country over five and a half million people across the country, not to mention all of the soldiers and alchemists lost while fighting Aerugo over a small territory and then fighting Creta's advances. After pursuing their enemy into Drachma weeks later and having the floor mopped with the lot of them, the country was hurting, and badly.

Amestris was short on everyting. Money, food, supplies, housing. Even with people working nonstop to rebuild, it still was nowhere near enough for the millions of refugees camped all over the country. And the fact that the world's foremost leader in war had lost so badly twice by the same enemy and now needing so much so badly caused a lot of concern. Yes, they needed those things quite legitimately, but there was the pressing concern that if Amestris was given help from the surrounding nations that they weren't constantly engaged with, that they would simply rebuild in order to attack again. Gavin gave the country points for determination, but their tactics were severely lacking and more resembling a thrashing child.

To help voice concerns and solve future issues, invitations had been sent out by Lord Dietrich of Creta to many of the other world's leaders, requesting they all meet in Dublin. Gavin had agreed with Dietrich that all of them discussing the issues together would better their chances of finding a more permanent solution... without killing both countries. Hopefully. Gavin paced slowly, hardly nervous about meeting with the other world leaders (though that was something of a historic milestone for Carraig; usually his beloved country and the mainland were happy to ignore each other just fine), but more the slight apprehension that after this meeting, even if their concerns were addressed and brought to Amestris' attention that they would either be ignored or met with hostility. After all, Amestris was now being partially lead by a commander whose fortress was unstoppable. A formidable adversary, yes, but Amestris starting another war to save face and pride was the last thing Gavin wanted for all of them.

Gavin looked skyward, waiting for the first of the private planes to be seen overhead and awaited the arrival of his guests. It's a beautiful day at least... Not raining today, so that should make it easier for their planes to land. The young king let out a soft sigh. At least this was a peaceful meeting, and Artemis would be at his side to help translate whatever he didn't understand. Letting out a deep breath, Gavin now stood still, waiting to welcome whomever would arrive first personally.

[Guest]

Dietrich sat patiently, looking out the plane’s window at it screeched across the ocean. Taking a calculated sip from his wine glass, he sighs, his gaze returning to the interior of the jet. Three guards he had, plus a stewardess and the two pilots. Only one of them would be brought with him to the meeting. Any more would likely be unreasonable, intimidating even. He didn’t come here to be the giant among the others. He came here as an equal. Sincerely, strangely enough. The world just wasn’t what it used to be. Things were… so simple. People cooperated. People listened. People reasoned. Now everything was “send everything here,” and “wage war there,” himself included. One-sided. One-dimensional. He was glad to know he wasn’t the only one to think that.

”Five minutes to landing, Lord Dietrich,” the stewardess says to him with a smile. With a silent nod, he buckles himself in as the plane starts on its descent.

~~~~~~~

Sitting in the back of a saloon car, he waits patiently as the landscape whips past them. Glancing briefly over at his chosen bodyguard, he takes in a deep breath, exhaling heavily. For once, he was impatient. He was eager to meet with the leaders. Not Drachma’s new leader, of course. Her… connections made it impossible to even consider inviting her. And Xing? Well, he only hoped the Emperor would show.

Arriving at the main gates, the car slows down to a crawl, preceding up to the front entrance.

”And… here we are,” he says with a smile. Stepping out of the car, he straightens his jacket and lowers his cane to the ground. ”Let’s go then, shall we?” he asks his bodyguard, proceeding up to the front entrance.

[Wolfgang Murinyo]

Wolfgang had recieved ajn invitation to a meeting of leaders days ago, and had set out immediately for Carraig. Thankfully, it was rather close to Gelemorte, compared to Amestris and such, so he made it in a good amount of days, top speed. With him was his loyal assistant, Molotov, as he departed the ship. They then rode, in style, to the meeting designation, on camels brought over from Gelemorte for their use. The pair then descended upon the meeting, seeing Diietrich and Gavin already there.

With a grin, he rode up to Dietrich's car as he exited the vehicle with a man nearby to likely guard his body. Wolfgang climbed down from the camel and hitched it to a post, which was in reality a fire hydrant. They had none in Gelemorte, so if he got a ticket, grrr... Molotov did the same as Wolfgang walked up to Dietrich. "Hello, Dietrich, ol' friend! How goes Creta these days, y'figure? Still in tip topped prime and crap, right? HaHAA~ Wouldn't want Creta be'in in an'ting too bad, nuh uh. I like your lands, nice to vacation in, y'know?" And not very leaderly, but very Wolfishly, as in expected of Wolfgang, he walked over and embraced Dietrich in a manly bear hug of awesomeness, before looking to him, waiting for an answer.

[Guest]

The austere Oliver shook at his seat subtly, resisting the urge to vomit as his stomach churned. Flying was just NOT his thing. But he is a royal guard. This is a test. A test of his endurance and his perseverance to not giving out to the motion sickness experienced. With his fellow Royal Guards, two others, the newly promoted Oliver sat in his ceremonial unarmored uniform, with the "beaver hat" as tourists had come to refer to it, worn. Feeling a certain lack of ease around the fact he is going into Carraig. Not exactly a favorite place of his, the stewardess letting his King know that they are nearing to the place... good! A few moments later and Oliver would give in to his horrid sickness that claims him so.

~~~~~~

Oliver felt relieved to be in the car, seated in front going "shotgun" as slang goes. Letting his upset stomach settle into the smoothness of the ride, calm down and not protest against such an indignant force known as "motion sickness". A blight upon the human body if ever there were any such things.

Glancing at the gates, spurring his attention by change of pace, he glances at the splendor of the palace. He seen all of those anyways, so it didn't really dazzle Oliver as much as kindled a curiosity on what sort of delightful dishes they prepared for the world leaders. It's a habit to do that for VIP's anyways.

"And… here we are," Oliver nods to his King's remark, stepping out of the car as well to his sire's right flank, rifle muzzle pointing upwards, held from the butt, minding his "beaver hat" lest it falls off, "Let’s go then, shall we?"

"As you wish, m'lord."

The stoic Blingworthy takes his typical ordered steps, marching by Dietrich up to the entrance for the Cretan debut of theirs. Though he was taken with some hidden amusement, pausing in place... seeing someone embrace his King like that. Recognizing that person to be the Gelemortian sovereign. Giving out a smile almost. Almost.

[Guest]

A grand yacht marked the arrival of the ruggedly tanned Esparian, substituting such a ride for a limousine on land. Enjoying the company of Helena, a replacement for Catalina temporarily as it goes, among his other two Amazonian guardswomen. Happening upon the gateways graced by their Cretan prior counterparts, as Vasco steps out. His face contorting into a vain smirk at the sight of Wolfgang. There was nothing friendly about his face, tensions and enmity was abundant.

"Well lookie what the cat dragged in, Wolfgang!" He beckoned mockingly, "I hope you're proud over your basketball team... *snorts* ...On how badly they lost, but don't feel bad. Gelemorté just never stood a chance against Esparia's finest."

Looking at the Cretan King, Vasco gave a nod and went off his way to the entrance. Opening such doorways to be the first foreign leader inside such a complex, gracing it with his presence. His simple military-like uniform contrasting with the ornate drapery the other guests chose to adorn themselves with.

Vasco's first target though was the first thing he noticed -- shrimps laid with the finest cocktail sauce topping, all placed out on the table. Shuffling past a few VIP's, the President of Esparia scoops up and munches the delightful meal, swallowing promptly with a new found love for the Carraig cuisine. Divorcing his hand of the sauce with a simple wipe on his handkerchief, pocketing it afterwards.

"To think I didn't know such meals existed... DELISH!" His mind resonated in approving reception.

[Guest]

Artemis hated politics. It was seriously boring as she was dressed smartly being sure her top was slightly low cut and the skirt form fitting. All she was allowed in weaponry was a silenced pistol attached to her hip. She frowned as she could hear voices approaching and stood ready to make her greeting. Giving Gavin one last looked she sighed and walked over straitening his tie. "Relax Gavin....You will be fine and they will not judge our nation if you slip up." She then leaned foreword whispering in his ear. "If all else fails I’ll get a lower cut top and a shorter skirt for a strawberry milkshake." She smiled happily and turned his tie now professionally tied and tidy. "You are the best king." Turning towards the door she opened it facing the current leaders.

Straight away she scanned King Dominic from Creta. At least one face she recognised. "Greetings and welcome to our lovely nation." She said bowing slightly glad that she had tied her hair back in a plait and had curled it into a bun. curled hair framing her face. "It's nice to see you again King David." She smiled softly towards Dietrich. "I'm glad you enjoyed your previous visit to come again."

[Guest]

It was a small and inconspicious plane. Just big enough to house a small handful of seats and an equally small staff. Ever since the invitation reached her, Yuuko had been looking forward to this meeting. A good turnout for this could result in good bonds to other countries. And allies were always useful in times of constant riots and wars right next door. Of course it could just as well end in one big free for all, leading to worldwide wars. But that was always a risk in this day. The fact that the ever so neutral land of Carraig was hosting this on Lord Dietrich of Creta's behalf made it a bit reassuring that nothing would happen though.
As always, she was enervated by the delay and waiting time labeled traveling. It was a time in that one could do nothing but wait. At least she knew what she was waiting for and made it much more bearable. The paper folding fan. Usually it was a sign of negative emotions that were to be hidden, today it served the purpose of covering up the excitement that had overtaken the Empress' expression. She'd been shielding her face with it ever since her arrival on the airport in Aerugo - not that any of the strongly disciplined servents on board would dare to inquire about their Empress' exceptionally bright mood. This day was important for world politics and thus she would almost have fun there. Herad about most of the leaders that would be there today, she already had from the news, personal intel and hearsay. But met she had none.

The plane had landed safely on the appointed airstrip. After it had come to a standstill, Yuuko came down the stairs and sat foot onto the tarmac. Minutes later she was escorted to a pre-set up car to close the transportation gap between the Airport and the palace. It was a silent ride, landscape zoomed past the windows for what seemed like hours to the impatient aerugese ruler. And then they arrived. As the car stopped and the door was opened to her, Yuu slowly got out with the most elegance a trained dancer's body would allow. This was a formal meething after all. All about looking good, behaving good and being smart. With exactly calculated steps, she closed the distance between the group of already arrived politicians of various countries and herself, the long, kimono-esque dress slightly dluttering in the mixture of wind and movement. As she got closer, dilligent looks jumped all over the place. Scanning their faces, their companions -offhand she recognized only Dietrich from the looks, the others were familiar but she could not put name tags on them immediately- all the while still covering up with the paper fan.
With the slight hint of a bow, she Introduced herself silently. Idle chatter was not exactly her thing, nor was it something that belonged here, in her opinion. She'd hold herself out of everything unimportant -from the looks of it, in reality she would, as was her nature, be eavesdropping on everything that was said in a language she knew- until the one who arranged all this and was thusly in charge, Lord Dietrich and Mr. Etheridge would take over and officially begin this business.

[Guest]

Helena had to admit, she knew little of Carraig. Perhaps like the rest of the world viewed her country, she never took much notice of it. But, at the very least, she would be able to go home and tell her family of the new land she visited, and perhaps bring along some gifts for her children. That is, if Vasco would allow it.

Such a strange man. Seeking a replacement for one of his bodyguards, she had decided to “volunteer” her protection services to the president. And translate, she supposed. She was more than a weapon, and certainly not in the name of the President. Especially when she wasn't skulking around as Valentin. No, to the others, she would just be a translator, she supposed.

The limo pulling up to the castle, she looks at it in wonder. Stone structures… They always amazed her so. Snapping back to the other leaders, she gives them all a good once-over. The Cretans, Aerugese, and Gelemortians all had arrived. With them, that only left the Xingese…

”President Allende,” she says, reaching out for him, but he had already started conversing with Wolfgang? She never really understood his rivalry with that man. Such unfounded distaste always flew over her head.

Keeping her distance, she watched as Vasco made his way into the castle ahead of everyone else. With a sigh, she makes her way up the stairs. ”Good day,” she says to everyone she meets, slowly creeping up behind Vasco. ”Good to know your priorities are set,” she says with an amused smile, looking over the food herself.

[Guest]

{BUMP}

[Gavin Etheridge]

More than familiar with politics and working policies out that would benefit his people, Gavin knew he shouldn't have been nervous about this meeting. It wasn't a threatening thing. So why was the young king so restless? Perhaps it was because there was no precedent to this sort of thing to use as a guideline. Sure, country leaders had talked before around times of war to discuss it not being war, or to negotiate a price for Carraig's mercenaries or weapons. But Carraig wasn't even really involved with this, not directly. Only hosting the party since it was neutral ground so nobody could claim some sort of favourtism or feel more threatened by one country over the other. He paced a moment longer before he heard Artemis speak up, his actions ceasing. ”Relax Gavin....You will be fine and they will not judge our nation if you slip up." Gavin couldn't help but smile softly, letting out a little breath he'd been holding as his guard straightened his tie. This was probably why his mother said he should consider marrying soon; someone needed to look after him and keep his head screwed on straight. Lord only knew his guard needed a break. "If all else fails I’ll get a lower cut top and a shorter skirt for a strawberry milkshake... You are the best king." Well, it was nice that somebody thought so, so even if he screwed up trying to get a little cooperation going for everyone, Artemis would still stand by him. And somehow that helped more than a lot.

A quiet young guard approached Gavin, alerting him that the first of the planes had landed and a car was now driving through the main gate and through the grounds to the main entrance, and that a two furry... things were being ridden toward the palace. Ah. The Cretans and Gelemortians had arrived. That was two off the guest list, at least. Gavin let out a small sigh, giving a last glance to Artemis before the uncertain look vanished entirely under the mask of a king. Warm, approachable, dignified and knowing what he was doing. Totally knowing exactly what he was doing now when he and these other foreign powers were gathering and doing something never done before. He was going to owe Artemis so many milkshakes by the end of tonight, wasn't he?

The inner gate opened wide to receive his guests as Gavin waited patiently. Lord Dietrich was the first to approach, and Gavin looked on as Wolfgang and his companion dismounted from the wooly Gelemortian camels and walked up. He would wait for everyone to come in, and for the moment Wolfgang and Dietrich seemed content enough to greet each other first. The palace doors opened, held by attendants as Gavin quickly typed in a greeting and turned the volume up loud enough to be heard politely. ”Hello, and welcome to Carraig,” Gavin said as the two leaders approached, the young king extending his hand out to each of them. ”My attendants will escort you both where we will all talk.” Another limo drove up, and out came the Esparian President, who... seemed to want to tease Wolfgang. Gavin sighed inwardly, hoping this wasn't a bad omen; he knew the two countries were never really crazy about each other, but surely they could all not kill each other for a single day, right? Right?

”Hello, and welcome to Carraig,” Gavin repeated to Vasco as he entered the palace and seemed to make a beeline for the refreshment table. Gavin had intended for everyone to be served, but he also had the small table full of delicacies and samplings, just in case anyone felt peckish before supper. Well... At least he didn't have to worry about too much awkwardness as he already seemed quite comfortable with his surroundings, which put Gavin somewhat more at ease. Right, no worries here. There were still two guests yet to arrive, and as Artemis welcomed Lord Dietrich back to Gavin's home, another small car drove up. The door was opened, allowing for Empress Yuuko to exit, the fabric of her kimono billowing slightly in the warm afternoon breeze as she entered the palace. Gavin typed quickly as he approached her, giving a polite bow before rising and hitting the enter key on his speech aid. ”Empress, welcome to Carraig and my home. Thank you for joining us.”

Gavin smiled gently, looking to each of his guests and their escorts. The meeting was going to be productive, he hoped, and though one guest still had yet to show up, he wasn't even sure if the Emperor of Xing would attend. After all, Xing had suffered similar horrible losses in the war with Drachma, and traveling to talk to the rest of the world's major leaders about what to do about the problematic country that caused you those losses... Well, maybe he would come, then. His fingers moved across the pad quickly, followed by turning up the volume just slightly. ”We still have Emperor Aries to arrive, but if you will all join me in the next room, we can start some of the preliminary discussions.” Gavin tucked the little device in his coat pocket for now, walking across the foyer and into a large formal sitting room full of large, plush chairs. They'd be at this a few hours at least, so there was no point in not being comfortable.

[Guest]

”Hello, Dietrich, ol' friend! How goes Creta these days, y'figure?”

”Ah, Wolfgang, a pleasure to see you as always. I wish I could bring better news, considering the Amestrian Conflict and the situation in Drachma…”

”Still in tip topped prime and crap, right? HaHAA~ Wouldn't want Creta be'in in an'ting too bad, nuh uh. I like your lands, nice to vacation in, y'know?”

Dietrich chuckles. ”Creta’s as stubborn as I am, Wolfgang. We’ve survived worse things.”

He eyed the ludicrous lio that pulled up after the Gelemortian king, flying the Esparian flag.

”Good day to you, Vasco,” he says, giving a small wave. He disengaged from Wolfgang before Vasco started to… gloat about some “triumph” or another. Typical politics between those two.

It was then that he noticed Empress Yuuko’s arrival. Bowing politely back at her, he started up the stairs without another word, though he found it curious that Vasco had postponed his normal beeline for the food. His… non-Amazonian assistant seemed to be more apologetic, but otherwise blew past him like the president.

”My apologies, Gavin,” he says, shaking the king’s hand. ”Lovely as always. Your country never ceases to impress me.”

Looking back down the driveway, he was wondering where the final guest was.

”We still have Emperor Aries to arrive, but if you will all join me in the next room, we can start some of the preliminary discussions.”

Ah. Well, he did have quite a ways to travel.

Following Gavin, he entered the sitting room, taking a seat farther from the entrance. Common courtesy, after all.

[Wolfgang Murinyo]

Wolfgang grinned, nodding. "Good, good, wond'ful. Wish'at all that fightin'd stop, though, ain't too good for anyone, 'ceptin fer Vodka-Land and that crazy-crap org'nization." Noticing Oliver, he moved in to hug the man as well, beaming. Then, as he had dreaded since his arrival, he heard a voice, mocking the proud Woolly Camels of the University of Vaingloria, Gelemort. Turning his head, his face now lacked expression. "If a cat dragged me in, a rat dragged you in, Allendy. I wish I could say it were's a pleasure see'in yah, but I don't like'tah lie. Speaking'o'which, didja know that three of our star players were out at their mother's funeral? How does THAT make you feel, now? Besides, we still trucked Sparia at baseball. So, have your bragging rights~" He then walked away, Molotov looking a bit apologetically towards Vasco. As Wolfy's bodyguard, his responsibility was to guard his body, and it didn't help him when his ruler picked fights!

Anyways, Wolfy circled the entrance, greeting ther dignitaries and their companions. His first 'victim' was an Empress Yuuko of Aerugo. Smiling politely, he walked over to her, giving a slight bow. Of course, he couldn't hug Yuuko as he hugged Dietrich or Blingness, the result would be horrendous. Therefore, so as not to face a sexual assault charge, he hugged her gently, sort of sideways like a brother would hug his sister. "Ah, Empress Yuuko. It's a pleasure seein youse today. You looks lovely, beautiful dress, if'n I may say so. So, how's things in Aerugo these days? Hadn't heard mucha'your country's news. News hits Gele pretty slow, act'ly." He waited for Yuuko's response, and after she gave it, he went about his business after courteously ending the conversation, in a gentlemanly manner. Moving on, he entered the building, and saw Artemis as she was finishing up her conversation with Dietrich. As the Cretarian king moved away, Wolfy came up to Artemis with a friendly smile, and gave her a hug, similaer to the one he gave Yuuko. "Ello miss! Wolfgang Murinyo of Gelemort, if'n you don't recergnize me, 'sokay, Gele's not well known. Must says, this here's a purty country, dontcha think? I'd mighta move in here if'n it snowed in Carraig!" Grinning, he once more waited for a response, before closing the conversation, in search of new prey-erm. Fellow sovereigns and their accomplices. Noticing an Esparian woman with Vasco, he figured he should be polite, considering SOMEONE wanted to be quite rude and insult a basketball team that OTHERWISE would have won, had three players not been attending their mother's funeral. Anywho~ He walked over to Helena, smiling politely. Even if he hated everyone in Esparia, he didn't hate them all EQUALLY. Most of the hate went to Vasco himself, and everyone else just got leftover wrath.

Giving a slight wave, he hugged her as he hugged everyone he ever came in contact with, and smiled. "Ello miss, just wantin to say hello, bein p'lite an such. Y'know, even if'n Allendy's your leader, ain't no reason tah'be rude, eh?" Giving a slight grin, he walked off once more, giving a friendly close. Moving further into the building, he found Gavin at last, as he caught up to Dietrich. Shaking his hand, for a moment or two, he decided to end the formal handshake, by pulling the young king into a manly hug of awesomeness. "King Etheridge, it is a pleasure bein here, y'know. You gots a wonderful country here, I loves it! Only problem's there ain't no snow ere, but 'ey, can't be the king of pre-cip'taton, can yah, eh? HaHAA~ See you when the meeting starts, right?" And with a friendly clasp of Gavin's shoulder for a brief second or two, he grinned and entered to meeting room, taking a seat to the left of Dietrich, as Molotov, trusted associate, stood against the wall behind Wolfgang, as the pair awaited the start of the meeting...

[Guest]

They did not have to wait long until the resident ruler appeared on stage. One after another he went trough and greeted the important guests as they arrived. From her impression, he was propably the most mature person around except herself, that served him a great plus already on top of hosting important business like this. As most others today, he choose to adress them in Cretan, it seemed like the most known language between the participants and their personal assets. So Yuuko would not have any problems understanding or voicing opinions today. Every once in a while it was pretty beneficial to be born of high status and being educated like it. Honestly, she would not have trusted any interpreters in these kind of things, not even those she would bring with her herself - partially she herself was in charge of the elite wing of spies and manipulators, so she knew very well what kind of methods were possible, if someone had interest to sabotage this meeting. "It is a true pleasure to partake in matters of highest importance in a country as fine as this." The Empress responded in perfect mannerism, as it was exepcted of her, before Gavin went ahead to adress a few words to everyone. After a short conversation and a greeting that had Yuuko questioning Mr. Murinyo's maturity and sanity alike - also tempting her to chastise him in one way or another - she followed Mr. Etheridge to the sitting room where the most important part of all this un would be happening.

After a short look around the room, Yuu decided for a seat averagely far away from the door trough which she had entered the room, again mostly following the usual routines of good mannerism and politeness that were standart in the higher class of aerugese people. It was certainly not the empirical throne room or throne, but the seating was well enough for the purpose. As usual, she crossed one -also as usual- rather sparely clothed leg oder the other, rested one hand in her lap in a very proper way and used the other one to keep the unfolded fan where it belonged, in front of her face, so mostly her eyes were visible and all expressions shielded. All the while still more or less surveying the other countries' representatives. Some of them either really had no manners at all or just were not as anxious and could let loose. "A good thing that a leader does not stand for the whole country's behaviour." The Empress thought while observing them, waiting for everyone to assemble into position for the actual meeting.

[Guest]

{BUMP}

[Guest]

Boring, boring, BORING. Everything was dull with all these sordid affairs, until Oliver caught himself a glance at a squabble between two particular faces he'd recognize -- the Esparian president partaking in the "trolling" of the Gelemortian leader. So far, it seemed to have worked in enraging the latter. Which alleviated Oliver of his otherwise sordid dread of all that is boring of this whole affair.

Still, rolling with Dietrich does have its perks, such as seeing how the leader conducts himself. Funnily enough, it does rub off on Blingworthy, from time to time. Accompanying him throughout the entire time, as he would watch him exchange his ordeals with the Crieg leader, not exactly the Calesman's favorite as they are natural rivals of all that is Calish from Calesland, whom later would become all under the dominion of Creta.

He made his way through the lobby, like a glued sticker to his leader, surveying the surrounding for any potential breaches, any positions or shady people that may have designs upon his King. In particular, any possible dissidents whom would place assassins in such a high profile meeting such as this.

In such a quick scan, he ceased and stood behind his King. Maintaining that statuesque face and rigid posture of his. Without a compromise of any sorts. Staring vacantly, outwards, into the empty space that is the seating room. Barely blinking. The famous Cretan Royal Guard stand as many would know it, which is to say, the amusement of many tourists.

"I suppose Crieg isn't as bad as I thought it'd be..." Truly, it was more... prim and proper than the savage Crieg of old that the Calesman pictured, nothing like what he was told about them back at his clan.

[Guest]

”I believe nothing stops us from getting started on our business, then?” Dietrich asks aloud, a hint of impatience in his tone. ”I’m sorry to ask you all here so suddenly, but we haven’t much time to catch up. For those of you who don’t know, things are getting rather… heated on the mainland, and I think that it’s growing out of control.”

Dietrich pauses, shifting slightly to sit more comfortably. He didn’t want to outright tell everyone he was wounded – that was a personal matter, and he’d treat it as such. But something far greater was at stake, and he didn’t want to squander this opportunity.

”Regardless of how close you were to Czar Loki, the uprising in Drachma affects all of us, I’m afraid. Its leader is a shrewd woman who was looking for power, and RIOTE handed it to her on a silver platter. But, surprisingly, I feel that there’s a more pressing matter. Something that, ultimately, set into motion all the events that have occurred.

“I’m speaking, of course, of Amestris. Even in ruin, they focus their time and effort on waging war with other countries. Not surprising, considering they’re currently ruled by a junta, but they are young, and naïve. They don’t know how politics work, and expect others to cater to their every whim.

“To some degree, Gavin agreed with me. I suspect we don’t see eye-to-eye on the matter, but I think we both value a human’s life, something that Amestris is currently neglecting in favor of warmongering. And that’s why I’ve called you all here today, to see if there’s something we can do about it. Eventually, it’ll stop being Creta and Aerugo’s problem, and it’ll spread. To Xing and Drachma, then to Esparia and Carraig, until it crosses the sea all the way to Gelemorte.

Amestris understands one thing right now: war. We need to show them a different path, another way. And I’d like your help.”

[Wolfgang Murinyo]

Wolfgang sat and waited for everyone else to be seated. Leaders in the room were himself, Gavin, Dietrich, and Yuuko. Oh yeah, and Vasco. Wolfgang didn’t count Vasco. So there were five incredibly influential people gathered, eh? Interesting... Dietrich spoke up as Wolfy turned to face him. His eyes could reveal much about him, and anyone who may have noticed his gaze would also notice this; now that the meeting had begun, his eyes, often ablaze with a love of life, had narrowed, darkened even. He was focused and for the time-being, serious. As Dietrich’s speech-like introduction concluded, Wolfgang sat up a little straighter and spoke up.
“I kinda figured we’d open up on the topic o’Mestris. I think I agree with you, Dietrich; ‘Mestris is in ‘er real bad war-mode nowadays. Now, strictly comin’ from my own growin’ up in Kan’ma, I know fer’a fact, ‘Mestris had to’a got worse since I left, bout a decade ago or so. But there’s a bit’a hope, I think. If’n they wadn’t like that afores, I think we can backtrack’em. Like you said, it’ll take’a bit o’ teamwork, but, cheesiness and kid Christmas specials likeness aside, I think we can do it. Whatwith fixin’ up ‘Mestris’s diplomatical stances and such, you gots Gele’s support. Now, as for this RIOTE org’nization, I say we should take the problem to the source; We fin’ a way’ta get a rebellion lit up in Vodka-Land, and we pit the Vodka-Bleeders ‘gainst them terror’sts. ‘San idea, ‘nyaways. My two cents in it.”
Sitting back in his seat, he gazed around to study the other leaders and their escorts, so as to see their reactions to his ideas. He really did believe his suggestions would work. Perhaps a bit of cooperation was all anything took, in the end.

[Guest]

Vasco couldn't help but snicker the whole time he ate the food to himself. Just how easily Murinyo had freaked out under his troll, and such a simple statement too! Goodness gracious, he should attend more of these meetings if it means pulling the Gelemortian leader's leg... whatever he is actually. That was one mystery to the President that dawned, just what was Murinyo besides leader? And just what the Hell is Gelemorté government form anyways? Ah well, they aren't really well defined to him.

"Heheh, he's definitely mad. Mission successful! Esparia one, Gelemorté zero." Those thoughts mired and dawned within the President.

Taking one more shrimp, he wiped off what grease he had on his hands on a handkerchief he had for the occasion, the strong absorbing stuff that pulls the stains off.

What roused Vasco's interests was the Cretan King's sudden speech signalling the need for the matter. Ah right, this wasn't a social convention but something else entirely. The certain matter called forth in a convention by Crieg to dealing with global affairs as a global community, or some shit like that as the papers go on to prattle about.

"Helena, to me. We have a little meeting to conduct." He orders, making his way through the crowds and seating himself in this newly gathered council of all the leaders of the greater countries.

Hearing about Dietrich's speech was really offset by the rather... unintelligible talks of Murinyo. Just what the Hell in the darnest tarnations is he saying? What he inferred was RIOTE, this supposedly mythical organization made up by Amestris, and a label given by some Imperialists to create an artificial threat to the people. Oh the irony that his disbelief of such an organization was so justified by the company of Helena, or was it Helen?

Vasco would stand up, waving that attention to himself, finding so little credit in the Gelemortian's solution. It was after all, natural to oppose him. Clearing up his throat and putting on his game voice, and his speeches in accord. Also known as, fooling the crowd in this case with clearly well said and eloquent words. Except, is he really aiming to fool them? Or is he sincere this time?

"Oh certainly, clearly the Gelemortian is as savage as the Amestrians. Pit war against those who just founded independence from an oppressive and autocratic regime. What kind of solution is that?! We all saw just how wonderfully an invasion turned out, and just how well a civil war ruined a country." Vasco made it clear with a scowl, perhaps it was the Esparian tendency towards rebellions that made him have that view? Or perhaps other sorts of sympathies? "I propose a better idea than an invasion or a cause for more bloodshed. We should form a coalition united by the common path towards less bloody initiatives. The best way to deal with this is by dialogue first, which I can't stress enough. Amestris did not bother to go for that option, even taking stances in undeclared war towards Drachma, which is why we should make sanctions in extreme cases, and negotiate with them before we turn towards more... radical solutions."

He inclined his view towards the Gelemortian, "Or perhaps you like destabilizing republics and establish puppet-head states, hmmm? If that's your idea of brokering peace, then I am absolutely against such notions. I think you spent your time in Amestris far too much, deluding you into their ideals of warmongering. Think for a moment, Wolfgang, of your solution, and to what consequences it entails."

[Gavin Etheridge]

Gavin let out a silent sigh through his nose as everyone moved to the sitting room. Carraig had plenty of snow, and some of the mountains in the winter were quite deadly. It just wasn't snowing right now... Ah well, maybe he would come back to visit the country to try it's sharp cliffs and see how much he enjoyed the snow in Carraig's wet winters. Gavin took a seat on a small sofa, leaving the space next to him for Artemis. Everyone was speaking Cretan right now, which helped, but Artemis was fluent in things Gavin wasn't and that his speech aid couldn't translate as easily for him. Everyone was getting comfortable as a young girl entered behind them, pushing a small cart with delicate cups and a large polished coffee pot. She gave a quick bow to those in the room, left quietly through the door and shut it behind her. The thing Gavin loved about his people and his staff were that afart from them being incredibly loyal to Carraig, they generally understood that their king was a little quirky and loved his privacy and were very good about not eavesdropping. Sure rag magazines liked to run headlines with him from time to time, but it was never anything real or critical, and almost never made it past their own shores. This meeting was big news for all of them, and so Gavin's staff and guards had been instructed to ensure complete privacy was kept at all times to maintain security.

He listened quietly as Lord Dietrich called them all to order, stepping away for just a moment to pour himse a cup of the coffee and sit back down. Dietrich wanted something diplomatic as a solution to Amestris' constant invasions; Wolfgang wanted them all to go to Drachma and pick a fight; Vasco wanted to bitchsmack Wolfgang. At least the meeting was starting off with a bang. Glancing to each of the leaders briefly, Gavin took a long sip of his coffee before putting it down to type on his pad. Damn that was actually really good coffee today; the winter blends were always so nice.

"Amestris has been a long-term customer of ours," the automated voice tolled out, Gavin still considering his words carefully. He did business with each of these nations in some way, and losing one would hurt them, but being thrown into wars that were forced to be this business would hurt worse. "But we have not been involved in their wars, or the wars of the mainland, for over two centuries. And while several of us are willing to assist Amestris rebuild, I refuse to let our money be squandered. Carraig will not contribute to more carnage with Amestris or Drachma." Gavin looked to Artemis for reassurance, and then let his fingers speed along the pad for another moment.

"I agree with Vasco that we should talk to them before doing anything rash. However, I feel it may be prudent to cease trade with Amestris unless they can show that they will change. Perhaps since we all do business with them, we may all agree to such a thing, should Amestris fail to comply. Depriving them of money and resources may get through to them better than direct violence." Gavin let out a little breath, looking to each of the leaders for their thoughts, and then to Artemis. "Hope embargo right choice," Gavin signed to Artemis, knowing the odds of anyone else understanding sign language were slim to none. "We defend Carraig; Amestris wars run us all down."

[Guest]

”Helena, to me. We have a little meeting to conduct.”

Helena sighed. She was happy he was taking his job seriously, but the way he ordered her around… It wasn’t fitting of a person such as herself. Perhaps she’d have to remind him of that on their way back home. Still, she was confident in the Creig guard to make sure no one murdered the president, so she could consider that half of her job accomplished. And now to help translate.

Entering the room after Vasco, standing behind him like she was his shadow, she listened to the pompous king speak. She already knew Vasco knew Cretan, which was a relief because she, herself, didn’t speak a word of it. When he was done, she shifted slightly, as the Gelemortian spoke up, in another la- Oh, he spoke Cretan too. And then Vasco, though from his tone and mannerisms, she figured he was trying to stick it to the Gelemortian. Again.

”President Allende, I’m afraid I won’t be able to translate until the rule of Xing arrives,” she whispers into his ear. That was, if he showed up at all. Perhaps he was simply late, due to the distance. Still, she was considering learned Cretan now. If she was invited along to more meetings like this, it’d be valuable to know what they were up to. And perhaps lean things against Amestris a bit…

[Guest]

Artemis sighed as she got ignored by half the leaders before one broke the personal space boundary. The arms wrapped round her and every hair on her head must of bristled as she gritted her teeth to restrained herself from break half the bones in his body. Her body squished to his in an awkward human sandwich and a refrained gasp and gag escaped her. Luckily for her he moved away before she could speak leaving her to sigh and re-catch her breath.

Watching everything go over she kept an eye out for suspicious actions and huffed. These things where so boring. Part of her wished that Franky was here. The large man would of kept her happy and entertained unlike the boring political talk and mental mind games of will. She suppressed a yawn until she noticed everyone sitting. Taking a seat beside Gavin she gave everyone her common 'No touchies' death glare as her now cold golden eyes scanned over the occupants as Gavin spoke. Nodding when he sighed to her in silent encouragement.

[Wolfgang Murinyo]

Alrighty then, so apparently, upon giving his idea to the world, it was IMMEDIATELY AND HORRIBLY GUNNED DOWN BY THE BIGGEST BULLY IN THE WORLD! Erm... I mean, upon giving his idea, such a preliminary strategy was instantaeneously declined by his greatest enemy, Vasco Allende. Of course, Gavin also disagreed, but he was much more polite with his disagreement. Therefore, Wolfgang smiled at Gavin, nodding in agreement. “ Ah, well, weres an idea. And Mr. Allendy, if I can says you somethin, it ‘ent nice to call someone a savage. Consid’rin where we are right now, youse better try tah meets me halfway here. Our goal ain’t a popularity contest, and it ain’t to shoot everything down comin out the other guy’s mouth. Pers’nally, I like your idea, Allendy. An’ I understan what’s wrong with mine, but that’s what we came here tah do; discuss BAD ideas and GOOD ideas soes we can pick out the right ones an’ go with’em. ‘S’how I sees it anyways.” Wolfy then sat back in his chair, breaking the death glare he had been firing at Vasco. Said glare, this time, was not meant as an object of hatred, rather, he was telling Vasco, with his eyes, that their dispute was better served elsewhere. Twas also a look saying, ‘if you wanna fight me, we can settle it outside, right here, right now.’ Of course, not EXACTLY right there or right now, because of the meeting. But after the meeting, if Vasco insisted on a fight, there could be one. Hopefully, there would not be one. And likely, there wouldn’t be; Twas but a threat, and besides, even Vasco was smart enough to know that a fight here would be bad for both countries. So Wolfy sat back and let everyone else speak, having given his first idea.

[Guest]

For starters, the aerugese Empress had resorted to listen. For it were the pleadings of the cretan King that introduced a topic to this illustrous round of rulers, wether they were elected by vote of majority, inherited royal blood or ursurped holdd of the throne in any other way. As it could have been expected, since what else was dragging so much attention in the world right now, other then that one country, Amestris was point one on the list of important things today. After the topic was brought up, opinions ond voices on the matter arose almost immediately. Some well-thought out, some not so much. While the Gelemortians struggled to not attack the Esparians during their explanations, their idea was rather reckless, peace by force if one wanted to call it that. The other party in the everlasting free-for-all suggested the exact opposite, calming the seemingly war-obsessed nation to order with a blockade on all the things it rercieved from around the world, carraig's main ruler apparently agreeing to that thought, although they had made quite a fortune in the past times by providing things of need to certain countries.

"While i, as leader of a country filled to the brim with proud warriors of tradition, would wish to be able to state, that Aerugo can take care of it's problems just fine, i regrettably have to digress. This has proven to be a problem too grand to handle by a single party. If nothing else because many parties besides the main offender are involved. It is something that has to be handled by all it's participants equally. We, as in: our countries, have to work together regardless of any disputes of different matter, as well as Amestris needs to be willing to change their ways." This adressed an issue that didn't seem to show up in other peoples heads so far. Any and all kinds of measure could only be effective if the target party was willing to change, to begin with. Otherwise they could simply find other ways to arange for much needed goods, for example. While a group effort seemed like a good idea to start off with, there would still be the countries not represented on this meeting, that could provide support in one way or another.

With an audible sound, the fan snapped into folded-up state. "Why would you want to discuss rather flawed ideas, exactly? When there are fine solutions presented to us already? Why do you feel need to squander away precious time and effort on things so trivial and pointless?" Yuuko shot an impaling glare towards the gelemortian representative, while practically lecturing him in a tone mixed between petty and harsh. Nevertheless, she wasn't exactly angered and kept her back leaned to the chair. "I think we can agree to that it is a good idea to embargo Amestris if they fail to better themselves. The question we really need to discuss is: What do we do if they don't do it and our combined effort is being circumvented even? Isn't that of much more importance? One cannot have a strategy without a feasible alternative to fall back on. And i strongly believe an offensive strike is a secondary measure suited for the goal we want to archieve." The last part of the speech was given a bit more emphasis by the aerugese Empress trough herself leaning forward, until her back was straightened out and supported herself on her crossed-over leg with the paper fan, thus accentuating her stature.

[Guest]

Ah, the chaos had already started. Such happened when ideas were thrown around, but it helped if everyone got the point of the meeting.

”Wolfgang, we’re trying to avoid more conflict. I, personally, have to interest in funding one radical organization to counter another. It’s a chain of events that ends with a torn country let to its own devices. Just another mess that someone else will have to clean up. Militaristic meddling and puppet leaders got Drachma where it is now, so I doubt it’d work, given recent events.

“Vasco and Gavin are right right: we need to open up a dialogue with Amestris, and we need to threaten the with something they can’t afford to lose. Losing imports and exports would damage them in the long run and crash their economy. They’re at war with Drachma, Xing is rich only in manpower, and they’re too large to support themselves.” Dietrich pauses, rapping his fingers against the table. ”So, where is the line? What is acceptable, and what is unacceptable? What demands do we take?” Pausing for a moment, Dietrich adds, ”Even Amestris’ government reflects how it acts: a military junta, with military-controlled police. I think that as long as its government is directly involved with the military, things won’t end well. Even former Furher Hild had the decency to not attack in some cases.”

Dietrich shakes his head. ”Perhaps we can convince Amestris into something more… democratic? Give power to the people, something that allows them to express themselves?”

[Dai]

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